Science communication in 3D virtual worlds: The science circle alliance in second life

Abstract

Educators have increasingly used 3D virtual worlds as alternative learning environments to engage students and accommodate different learning styles. Members of The Science Circle, an international alliance of science educators and enthusiasts, were surveyed about their experiences and attitudes towards communicating science in Second Life. 36 survey respondents expressed overwhelmingly positive experience communicating, teaching, and learning science concepts there. They also largely agreed that virtual worlds include features that enhance learning in ways that are difficult to reproduce in physical settings.